Celebrating Ramadan through a young girl's eyes.

Yasmeen, a 7-year-old Pakistani-American girl, had always thought of Ramadan as a time filled with lots of parties and presents. This year, she is learning more and helping more as her family celebrates the holiest month in the Muslim calendar. At the end of Ramadan, Yasmeen celebrates with her community, but the best surprise comes on Eid, a religious festival after Ramadan.

This is an exquisite picture book that can be shared just for its pictures, as well as for its value in teaching children about Ramadan. Children of all walks of life will understand Yasmeen's joy and excitement in celebrating her faith and its traditions.

The emphasis in the story is on fasting (which is what will grab children's attention), as well as the parties. It isn't until the author's notes that you learn that during Ramadan Muslims are encouraged to "give to charity, perform good deeds, and offer special prayers." This is a minor thing in the story, but overall it seems to be a pretty important part of the tradition.